(Latest fire photo submitted at 2 p.m. by Jared Kail looking across the canyon at the blaze from the top of the first switchback)

(Lander, Wyo.) – The U.S. Forest Service is in the process of evacuating Sinks Canyon, southwest of Lander, following the start of a large forest fire.

As of 1:15 p.m., Forest Service personnel were asking people to leave and clearing the campgrounds. Homestead Park, a collection of homes on the outside wall of the canyon is also being evacuated due to the close proximity to the fire.

The fire appears to have started on Fairfield Hill. The Hill is on the north-side wall across from Bruce’s Parking Lot. Winds were pushing the fire further south into the canyon.

Personnel on scene said they expected the road into the canyon to be closed and air support had been ordered. There was no word available to County10.com as to when air crews might arrive. Ground forces, including Forest Service and Lander Rural Fire Department, were beginning to gather at the floor of the canyon, however no firefighters were working the blaze yet.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. (Click photos to enlarge. Joshua Scheer photos)